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The Election Commission of India (ECI) has firmly denied allegations by the Congress party of arbitrary voter additions and deletions in the Maharashtra assembly elections. Addressing concerns raised by Congress, the ECI emphasized that due process was followed in the preparation of electoral rolls and in reporting voter turnout. Here's a detailed explanation of the issue and the ECI's response.
Congress Alleges Irregularities in Voter Lists
The Congress party claimed there were "arbitrary deletions of voters" and additions of over 10,000 voters in each constituency in the finalized voter lists. Additionally, the party expressed concerns over a significant increase in voting percentages after 5 PM on the polling day. They alleged discrepancies in voter turnout data reported by the ECI, calling it "inexplicable."
ECI’s Response: No Arbitrary Changes
In its detailed statement, the ECI clarified that no arbitrary additions or deletions were made in the voter lists. The electoral roll preparation process, the commission stated, was conducted transparently and in compliance with established rules. Congress representatives were also actively involved during the preparation of these rolls.
On the allegations of increased voter turnout after 5 PM, the ECI explained that such changes are a part of the normal aggregation process. Voting percentages at 5 PM only represent data compiled from polling stations at that time, while final turnout figures are based on comprehensive aggregation and include voters who were still in queues at 5 PM. The ECI stressed that these differences are "bona fide and inconsequential."
Voter Turnout Data Cannot Be Manipulated
The ECI underscored that it is impossible to alter actual voter turnout data. Each polling station maintains statutory Form 17C, which records detailed voter turnout information and is shared with authorized representatives of candidates immediately after voting concludes.
The poll panel reassured that the integrity of the electoral process remains intact and that transparency is a cornerstone of its operations.
BJP’s Bansuri Swaraj Criticizes AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal for Failing to Deliver Promises
New Delhi, December 22 (ANI):
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Lok Sabha MP Bansuri Swaraj on Friday accused Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal of misleading voters with unfulfilled promises. She urged him to "stop this electoral deception" and highlighted instances where she claimed Kejriwal failed to deliver on his commitments.
Referring to promises made during the Punjab Assembly elections, Swaraj alleged that the AAP government has yet to fulfill its pledge of transferring money to women’s accounts. “Women in Punjab are still waiting for even a single rupee to be deposited,” she remarked.
Swaraj also questioned the delay in implementing the Sanjeevani Yojana and accused Kejriwal of neglecting the needs of Delhi's elderly during his decade in power. “Were the elderly in Delhi not deserving of support back then?” she asked.
She further criticized the Delhi government for not implementing the central government’s Ayushman Bharat scheme, suggesting that political differences were preventing the rollout of a beneficial welfare program. “Even the Delhi High Court has questioned why this scheme has not been implemented here,” Swaraj pointed out.
Concluding her remarks, Swaraj called on Kejriwal to provide genuine leadership rather than making empty promises and campaign slogans. She emphasized that the people of Delhi deserve action, not just words.
Data Transparency and Assurance
Responding to Congress’s demand for data, the ECI highlighted that all information, including electors’ details and Form 20 for each constituency, is publicly available on the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Maharashtra's website. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration with all political parties and welcomed constructive suggestions to enhance the electoral process.
Conclusion
The ECI’s robust defense reiterates its meticulous and transparent processes in managing elections. While the Congress party raised concerns about irregularities, the election body has firmly dispelled these claims, reinforcing trust in the electoral system.
